Residents of Bridport, Beaminster and surrounding villages are being asked by local charity West Dorset Wilding for their views about beavers in the wild.

Set up in 2021 to encourage restoration of nature in the area, West Dorset Wilding will be hosting a series of drop-in public consultations about a potential wild release of beavers in the Brit catchment. 

The meetings will be held in Bridport, Beaminster, Netherbury, Loders and Broadoak between April 13 and 21.

Full details on these drop-in meetings can be found at https://westdorsetwilding.org/beavers

Beavers are a native species in the UK, but they were made extinct in the wild over 400 years ago.  They are a 'keystone species', which means their behaviour positively affects many aspects of the ecosystem, and they are also now protected by law.

Following a successful wild trial in the Otter Valley, in neighbouring East Devon, people across the country are looking to reintroduce them into the wild to help bring balance back to nature.  

This is a lengthy process and needs support from communities as well as detailed information such as a Beaver Management Plan.

It is the next stage on from the two beaver enclosures that already exist in the catchment, including the Mapperton home to the famous escapees Twiggy and Woody.

The drop-in events will give the opportunity for residents to find out about beavers, their positive role in nature, and how their presence in the wild can sometimes cause problems for farmers and landowners.  

The charity staff and trustees are very aware that the subject can divide opinion and are eager to discuss both the pros and cons of wild beaver reintroductions, and to listen to all points of view. 

During each event there will be a presentation at a fixed time, and visual information about the animals about how they behave and are managed. 

Event information is all available at https://westdorsetwilding.org/beavers  

If anybody cannot make the drop-in sessions but would still like to give their views, there are means by which to do this on the webpage.

Dr Sam Rose from West Dorset Wilding said: "All are welcome to drop in to one of the sessions and have a cup of tea and a chat.  

"We want to know what people who live and work in the Brit catchment think about the idea of a wild beaver release, and hopefully answer questions, address concerns and discuss opportunities.  

"Our experience of beavers from around the country is growing and we are keen to share some of these stories with people in West Dorset."

You can find out more about the charity and how to get involved at www.westdorsetwilding.org and by contacting [email protected]